Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
Im getting close to getting back into a DRW and truck camper to do some traveling.
I had a 03 QC 4x4 HO with a lot of mods and carried a couple of different campers, Lance 1191 and 981. (Around 5k lbs) and it was a great setup and handled well. With a built trans and Smarty, I had plenty of performance.
I’ve had a 2016 and 17 3500 srw Aisin and know how nice these trucks are, As well as how expensive and technologically complex they are getting.
I’ve located a really clean 2004 Dodge 3500 QC 4x4 DRW completely stock with 58k 1 owner miles. West coast truck so no rust. Also has camper tie downs installed.
My other option is a new 2018 SLT CC DRW 4x4 Aisin 4:10 has everything I want for options except the $1100 power sunroof which I don’t want.
I can get the new truck for $53k plus T&L ($13,600 off sticker) or the 2004 for around $25k.
I like the shorter rear cab on the 04 as I don’t carry passengers and it makes for a shorter overall length.
Also the 03-06 were much simpler without the emissions equipment and easier to mod. (Smarty)
The 18 has an almost 2k lb increased payload and much more power etc. (4 th gen owners know how sweet they are). But, I never felt overloaded in the 03.
Full warranty vs no warranty on the 03 etc. but shouldn’t have to worry too much although it is a 14 y/o truck now.
I think I know the logical answer, but just want to hear some experienced opinions.
Thanks.
If new, white or granite crystal color.
I had a 03 QC 4x4 HO with a lot of mods and carried a couple of different campers, Lance 1191 and 981. (Around 5k lbs) and it was a great setup and handled well. With a built trans and Smarty, I had plenty of performance.
I’ve had a 2016 and 17 3500 srw Aisin and know how nice these trucks are, As well as how expensive and technologically complex they are getting.
I’ve located a really clean 2004 Dodge 3500 QC 4x4 DRW completely stock with 58k 1 owner miles. West coast truck so no rust. Also has camper tie downs installed.
My other option is a new 2018 SLT CC DRW 4x4 Aisin 4:10 has everything I want for options except the $1100 power sunroof which I don’t want.
I can get the new truck for $53k plus T&L ($13,600 off sticker) or the 2004 for around $25k.
I like the shorter rear cab on the 04 as I don’t carry passengers and it makes for a shorter overall length.
Also the 03-06 were much simpler without the emissions equipment and easier to mod. (Smarty)
The 18 has an almost 2k lb increased payload and much more power etc. (4 th gen owners know how sweet they are). But, I never felt overloaded in the 03.
Full warranty vs no warranty on the 03 etc. but shouldn’t have to worry too much although it is a 14 y/o truck now.
I think I know the logical answer, but just want to hear some experienced opinions.
Thanks.
If new, white or granite crystal color.
Last edited:
